Burke grad Rufer doesn't get much of a shot against Army

WEST POINT — After exiting Lafayette's locker room Wednesday night, Zach Rufer walked down a tight hallway before hanging a quick left into Christl Arena's lobby.

JUSTIN RODRIGUEZ

WEST POINT — After exiting Lafayette's locker room Wednesday night, Zach Rufer walked down a tight hallway before hanging a quick left into Christl Arena's lobby.

There, three of his former John S. Burke Catholic teammates — Kyle Smith, Jesse Longmire and Michael Kelly — jockeyed to give Rufer a hug. They all got in a few quick embraces and handshakes, laughing and joking together while other Burke Catholic fans milled around.

Welcome home, Zach.

Zufer, a two-time Varsity845 Player of the Year (2011 and '12), returned to the mid-Hudson in Lafayette's 77-54 Patriot League loss to Army. Lafayette coach Fran O'Hanlon would not allow the Times Herald-Record to interview Rufer, a freshman backup point guard, after the game.

Rufer, who led Burke Catholic to the state Class B championship two years ago, scored one point in 12 minutes in front of about 50 friends and family. It wasn't the performance he was hoping for. Of course, his contingent still had his back.

"It was good to see him back. It was a good time," said Smith, a Burke Catholic senior guard. "I definitely miss the kid. I've been friends with him since second grade and we have played basketball together forever. To see him play D-1, the highest level, was a lot of fun."

"It was great watching him play," agreed Kelly, who also plays guard for Burke Catholic. "He just has to get into a groove, he has to get comfortable. Zach is only a freshman and he will definitely come around. We loved him when he was with us and we love him still."